Hey all! I'm looking for cheap (and maybe creative) ideas for saddlebags that can be mounted to a stock 2006 KLR rear rack. I'd prefer metal or plastic obviously. I'm all good with silicone waterproofing as needed. And rigging up some mounting brackets must be done without welding, as I have neither the skill, equipment, or a lot of time (wild circumstances... decided to go see what all the hubbub of the Rockies and West Coast is all about for a solid 6 weeks).

Sound crazy? I just turned 23, and couldn't be more reckless. I'm hoping that you ladies and gents might have some good idea. Don't let me down.

Someone cut up a milk crate, removed 2 sides, and bolted the remains upside down on his rear rack. He then bolted his luggage to the sides of the crate.

Provides a surface to bolt to, and a standoff from the high pipe. Seemed to work fine.

Love it. That would probably just require a couple stabilization brackets to the rear pegs. I've started planning a sizable trip in late August that'll take me several thousand miles from home. Due to circumstances beyond my control, I'll only have about a week of prep time before I set out. The bike currently has no luggage (which is why I'm asking about it), but is equipped with a taller windscreen. New tires, new chain and sprocket, and freshly cleaned airbox and carb. In the opinions of the men who've been doing it for years, what are some of the essential mods / prep that I should have at the top of the list before setting out?

If you think this might fit better in another thread, please let me know.

an entertaining idea! but even without doing the conversion, I know that 220EUR is a tad out of my range. the word "splurge" is reserved for those of you out there who have held a steady job for a few years. it's not an option for me.

personally i like the idea of buying two "roll top" type waterproof bags. and make a harness from nylon straps mat'l..... cheap( about 60$u.s. for any size you go with) and fairly simple to make...and the bags can hold enough gear to make ANY trip work! in the past i did buy an ortlieb saddle bag set. it works alright, but the price was 200$s and i use it soo infrequently that now when ever i'm prepairing for a long motorcycle trip, i wounder why i just didn't make it for myself the first time.